Jeep’s 2024 Gladiator, unveiled at this year’s North American International Auto Show, shines with a host of exciting updates and enhancements. This rugged off-roader, introduced to Jeep’s lineup in 2019 alongside the iconic Wrangler, is set to captivate enthusiasts with its fresh features.
A striking change graces the Gladiator’s exterior in the form of a new seven-slot grille. Mirroring its Wrangler counterpart, this revamped facade boasts smaller grille slots, a strategic move to enhance cooling efficiency. With black slats and neutral gray bezels framed by a body-color surround, the Gladiator exudes an imposing presence. Notably, the Willys trim sets itself apart with bold black slots and bezels, making a statement all its own.
Wheels play a pivotal role in off-road performance, and the 2024 Gladiator offers a choice of seven new designs that can comfortably accommodate 32- or 33-inch tires. Additionally, the elimination of the traditional steel mast antenna in favor of an integrated windshield antenna not only enhances aesthetics but also reduces aerodynamic drag.
Stepping inside the Gladiator, the updated interior closely mirrors the redesigned Wrangler. The headline feature here is the expansive 12.3-inch infotainment display, prompting a redesign of the inboard air vents, which now form a sleek line beneath the screen housing the Uconnect 5 system. Offering supreme comfort, the Gladiator now provides the option of twelve-way power seats, rigorously tested for water fording capabilities.
The remarkable 12.3-inch screen elevates connectivity with wireless compatibility for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, accommodating two Bluetooth-enabled devices with ease. Furthermore, Jeep enhances the hands-free voice recognition with a cutting-edge seven-mic array.
But that’s not all; this dynamic screen also introduces the Jeep Adventure Guide with Trails Offroad. Off-road enthusiasts will find this feature invaluable, as it offers access to comprehensive trail guides and maps for 62 Jeep Badge of Honor trails, including renowned names such as the Rubicon Trail and Hell’s Revenge. For a deeper dive into adventure, an annual subscription to Trails Offroad is available at a reasonable $39.99.
Safety receives a boost in the 2024 Gladiator, with the inclusion of first- and second-row curtain airbags and the addition of belt pretensioners and load limiters for second-row outboard seats. Structural enhancements further augment the vehicle’s side-impact performance, ensuring all-around safety.
Under the hood, the Gladiator retains the tried-and-true 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, with an eight-speed automatic option for those seeking versatile driving experiences.
Jeep leaves no stone unturned in catering to diverse preferences. The Mojave and Rubicon trims come equipped with steel rock rails, while the X variants take it a notch higher with additional steel rock rails for the bed corners. The Mojave X and Rubicon X editions introduce an integrated off-road camera, robust steel bumpers, a full-time transfer case, and power front seats.
Jeep enthusiasts seeking personalization options will be delighted by the collaboration with American Expedition Vehicles (AEV). Three exciting upfit packages are on offer, including the AEV Upcountry and Upcountry+ packages, which bring a substantial 2.0-inch suspension lift and rugged 35-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires to a range of trims. For the Rubicon trim exclusively, the Level II pack stands out with colossal 37-inch tires and an impressive 16 inches of ground clearance.
The 2024 Gladiator is now available for order, with US dealership arrivals expected later this year. With a color palette featuring nine distinctive shades, including the eye-catching Anvil (a new addition), Jeep enthusiasts have plenty to look forward to. While pricing details for the 2024 model year remain undisclosed, anticipation runs high as we approach the truck’s on-sale date, further adding to the intrigue surrounding the upcoming Gladiator lineup.
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